Developer Bryan McClure of McClure Real Estate Town Park pitched his idea to the city in March 2012.

The resort will offer amenities such as bathroom and laundry facilities, along with a swimming pool, hiking trails, fishing dock and general store. Once opened, it will employ about seven to 10 people, McClure said.

The project borders the 320-acre Sgt. Jasper County Park. McClure said the plan is to open Camp Lake Jasper on April 1. The land was originally approved as a more than 100-unit townhouse development.

“The previous developer vacated after they installed all of the roads and approximately 90 percent of the storm drainage and utilities,” Mayor Pro Tem Michael Sweeney said.

At a recent Southern Carolina Alliance board of directors meeting, the Camp Lake Jasper project was awarded a $5,000 grant.

“The infrastructure grant SCA gave was to assist in the upgrade of an existing electric service,” said Marty Sauls, Jasper County councilman. “The grant was from raised funds and is specifically used for infrastructure that results in investment or job opportunities. The awarding of this grant exemplifies the close working relationship with the SCA and Jasper County has to promote economic development.”

McClure said construction for the lakefront pool and general store is under way.

“The money is a generous grant from the alliance that will help mitigate the infrastructure costs,” he said.

Camp Lake Jasper will accommodate parking for 105 RVs. All three size classes of motor homes will be accepted.

“This park will be used as rental facilities for RV owners. It won’t allow house trailers or RV vehicles for a great length of time. It is primarily for vacation personnel,” Sweeney said.

The RV resort differs from the Hardeeville RV park on S. Okatie Highway — S.C. 315 by encouraging guests to use the onsite amenities.

“We want people to come and not leave the complex. The resort emphasizes enjoying the outdoors by canoeing, hiking, kayaking or fishing,” McClure said.

He said the rates will be feasible and adjust according to the season. Locals and visitors can enjoy a game room, playground and a lakefront community fire pit. The resort will also accommodate family pets with a dog park.

Mayor Bronco Bostick said Camp Lake Jasper was a much needed project for Hardeeville.

“A lot of people who travel with campers are looking for recreational locations in the Lowcountry,” Bostick said. “Most travel along Interstate 95 and make reservations to stay in Richmond Hill because there is nowhere else to park their RVs. I think this project will be a great asset for the area.”